The furnace is an essential system for homeowners in Chicagoland and the surrounding suburbs. When temperatures start to drop outside, the heating system is responsible for maintaining a comfortable temperature inside. Here are a few tips to keep your heating system running efficiently all season long.
Schedule Yearly Heating Maintenance
Residents of Wheeling, Cary, Buffalo Grove, Highland Park & Palatine, IL are familiar with the bitter cold temperatures that are so common in our region. Prepare your home for winter by scheduling regular maintenance of your furnace in fall or early winter. Preventative service can reduce the likelihood of untimely repairs, help lower your monthly fuel bills, and improve the life and efficiency of your heating equipment.
A furnace has many delicate pieces: Burners, heat exchangers, and other internal parts should only be inspected by a trained professional. After heating service, you can continue to maintain the unit by vacuuming heating vents and grills, and replace your air filters on a regular basis.
How Often Should Air Filters be Replaced?
The role of the furnace filter is to prevent airborne dirt, dust and debris from circulating through the ventilation during each cycle. The build up of dirt can significantly restrict air flow. As a result, the system has to work harder and consume more fuel to operate. Furnace filters should be checked and replaced every 3 months, though some filters will need more frequent replacement.
What Should I Set My Thermostat to in Winter
When home, the recommended setting for a thermostat in winter is 68 degrees. To save on energy, lower the thermostat a few degrees (anywhere from 2 to 10 degrees) when you’re away from home. These factors also affect the temperature of a room, and should be taken into consideration when selecting a thermostat setting:
- The thermostat’s location
- The presence and quality of insulation
- Humidity
Consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat to help you manage your indoor environment.
3 Warning Signs Your Furnace is Malfunctioning
A working furnace does not equal an efficient furnace. Be aware of these three warning signs, and contact a professional for heating repair:
- Loud knocking, rattling or other unfamiliar sounds
- Frequently turning on and off
- Unexplained spikes in monthly fuel bills
Do you have more questions about your heating system? Go to our FAQs page, or call at (847) 450-7366 for heating service in Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, Lake Zurich & Lake Forest, IL and the surrounding area.
